This year marks the second time he is designing New Year stamps for China Post.

He created a Year of the Dog stamp in 1982. Then, he drew inspiration from the decorative patterns and a vibrant palette of Chinese ethnic groups.

Speaking about his work, his daughter Zhou Rong says: "He has cut the decorative elements this time but has adopted a simple and true-to-life style."

Her father wants to highlight the physical features and temperament of endemic dogs, she says.

Chinese New Year stamps are still very popular across the country, although few people today use stamps.

In cities such as Beijing and Shanghai, buyers waited in lines outside post offices before they opened on Friday, according to Li.

Meanwhile, an exhibition showcasing Zhou's stamp designs and all New Year stamps that have been issued by China Post over the years is showing at the National Post and Postage Stamp Museum in Beijing. It will run through February.

Contact the writer at linqi@chinadaily.com.cn